Torquay thong record bid to pump up Nippers’ funds

TORQUAY’S Cosy Corner will become a sea of yellow on Australia Day when thousands of people attempt a new world record as a fundraiser for local Nippers, according to organisers.
Torquay Surf Life Saving Club fundraising coordinator Carolyn Biram hoped Victorians would “beat out” the other states competing to break the world record for the most people on inflatable thongs in a body of water.
Ms Biram said about 1380 participants attended last year’s Havaiana’s Thong Challenge but it wasn’t enough to top winner Western Australia with 2088.
Ms Biram encouraged locals and holidaymakers to enter because $10 from each participant’s registration fee would go toward keeping the the life saving club’s Nippers program “open and uncapped”.
“This program is important and every child should be able to enjoy the Nippers program and learn about water safety.”
Three-hundred and fifty children completed this year’s summer program.
Ms Biram said about 120 volunteer lifesavers would patrol the event.
She praised lub lifesaving director David Nankervis for “effectively” running the event each year.
Ms Biram said registrations were open at www.havaianasthongchallenge.com.au.